Liam Herrick

The commission has expressed concern about persistent reports from key stakeholders regarding delays and a lack of transparency in the identification of victims of human trafficking. This is having a negative and distressing impact on vulnerable individuals.

These problems are compounded by delays in the State putting into operation a new system for identification of victims of trafficking which has been on the statute books for two years but not yet commenced.

As such, in its capacity as Ireland’s Independent National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Human Beings, the commission has written to justice minister Jim O’Callaghan highlighting the lack of progress in key areas of the State’s response to human trafficking and the potential for backsliding, including in the provision of appropriate accommodation to victims.

Chief commissioner Liam Herrick said: “For people who have experienced the crime of human trafficking, being identified as a victim quickly and having access to safe and appropriate accommodation and support are essential.

“We are increasingly concerned that delays in identification and a lack of a transparent and consistent process are impacting negatively on vulnerable individuals. These could be rectified by the commencement of existing legislation on the statute books for two years but with no clear timeline for implementation. We are also aware of a worsening accommodation situation, particularly for victims of trafficking who are not within the international protection system.

“It is essential that presumed and identified victims of trafficking can easily access safe and appropriate accommodation and do not face administrative hurdles or restrictive conditionality when seeking such accommodation and support.”